Tenant Inventory: Check-in and Check-out in France

An inventory describes the condition of the rental at the time of a tenant's arrival or departure and protects the rights of both parties in France. It is used to compare the initial and final state, determine possible deductions from the security deposit and avoid disputes over repairs. This guide explains in plain terms the practical differences between a check-in and a check-out inventory, what to inspect, how to document the condition of the rental and what steps to follow if a disagreement arises. It cites official resources and shows concrete steps for tenants facing a dispute or deposit return.

Qu'est-ce qu'un état des lieux ?

The inventory is a written, dated and signed document that describes the condition of the rental unit. It can be completed on paper or electronically and must be precise to serve as evidence in case of dispute.^[1]

Différences principales entre entrée et sortie

• Check-in inventory: it records the condition of the rental at the time of your arrival, usually attached to the lease and signed by the tenant and the landlord.
• Check-out inventory: it compares the condition of the rental at the time of departure with the check-in state to assess possible repairs or damages.
• Security deposit: deductions must be justified by damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Qui réalise l'état des lieux ?

It can be carried out by the landlord, an agent or by a bailiff. If the landlord refuses to make the inventory, the tenant can propose a date and, if there is no agreement, call on a bailiff (costs shared unless otherwise agreed).

Que vérifier lors de l'entrée et de la sortie ?

• Structural elements: walls, floors, ceilings, doors and windows.
• Installations: heating, plumbing, electricity, supplied appliances.
• Cleanliness and signs of damp or mold.

Que faire en cas de désaccord ?

If you dispute the conclusions, keep your evidence (photos, written exchanges) and propose conciliation. The departmental conciliation commission can be seized for rental disputes before going to the tribunal judiciaire. As a last resort, the judge decides based on the evidence provided.^[2]

FAQ

Faut-il toujours faire un état des lieux contradictoire ?

Yes, it is strongly recommended to make a contradictory inventory signed by both parties to protect tenant and landlord.

Que faire si l'état des lieux n'est pas joint au bail ?

Request its completion before moving in and keep a signed copy; without an inventory it is harder to withhold from the deposit.

Puis-je faire appel à un huissier ?

Yes, especially in case of conflict; costs may be shared or borne by the losing party depending on the decision.

Comment faire

1. Schedule the visit and note the presence of all items in the rental.
2. Photograph each room with date and caption to document condition.
3. Sign the document with the landlord and keep a paper copy and a digital copy.
4. If dispute, seize the departmental conciliation commission then, if necessary, the tribunal judiciaire.

Points clés

• Make a contradictory inventory to avoid disputes.
• Document everything with dated photos and written exchanges.

Aide et ressources

• [1] Service-public.fr - État des lieux et modèle
• [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr - Textes et articles sur le bail

1. [1] Service-public.fr - État des lieux et modèle
2. [2] Legifrance.gouv.fr - Textes et articles sur le bail